Frank yet charismatic: Former Labor senator Graham Richardson dead at 76
Veteran Labor figure and Sky News contributor Graham Richardson died at age 76 on Saturday. He was a senior cabinet minister in the Hawke and Keating governments, a husband, a father, and had contributed to Sky News Australia for 15 years.
Tribute from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to Richardson, calling him a "much loved" member of the Labor Party. Albanese shared his personal connection with Richardson, highlighting the senator's wisdom and loyalty.
"He’s someone who I often got advice from and he was always worth listening to."
"He was someone who was very much loved within the Labor party, but more broadly as well – you spoke about the family there at Sky News."
"He’s someone who everyone worked with him and had contact with him had to respect his intellect his capacity to cut through, and his insight into the way that politics worked."
"Graham was someone who was incredibly loyal. He was loyal to me as Labor leader."
Albanese also fondly remembered their shared moments outside politics.
"I'll miss our lunches at the Malaya, we used to try to catch up at least once a year."
Legacy
Richardson was viewed as a respected and insightful figure whose influence spanned decades within the Labor Party and the media. His frank style and charisma left a lasting impact on colleagues and viewers alike.
Author’s summary: Graham Richardson, a respected Labor powerbroker and trusted adviser known for his insight and loyalty, has passed away, leaving a notable legacy within politics and media.